The University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign is a public land-grant research university in Illinois in the twin cities of Champaign and Urbana. It is the flagship institution of the University of Illinois system and was founded in 1867. The university serves the people of Illinois through a shared commitment to excellence in teaching, research, public engagement, economic development and health care. Faculty, staff and students share their knowledge, expertise and resources with residents in every corner of the state through public service and outreach programs.

The Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP) is a first-of-its-kind park for quantum scale-up and related quantum and advanced microelectronics research and development. Minutes away from downtown Chicago along Lake Michigan, this site will: 1) build on a track record of historic investment by the State in quantum information science and technology, and 2) further establish Illinois as a global hub for quantum. The park is designed to support the full ecosystem of companies, researchers, suppliers, end users and other partners working to facilitate the development and commercialization of quantum technologies, including the world's first fault-tolerant computers. For more information, visit our website.

Job Summary

The Deputy CTO and Director of Quantum Facility Operations will bring deep expertise in experimental quantum science to support and extend the CTO's leadership of IQMP's quantum‑technology strategy. Reporting to the CTO, with a secondary reporting line to the COO, the incumbent will provide scientific and technical leadership in quantum science technologies to guide the deployment of IQMP's technology strategy, develop and delivery IQMP quantum facilities, and build strategic partnerships. This role plays a central part in aligning IQMP's scientific investments, infrastructure, and partnerships to advance its mission.

Duties & Responsibilities

Scientific & Technical Leadership
- Provide scientific and technical leadership in experimental quantum science, ensuring that IQMP’s technology strategy is grounded in state‑of‑the‑art quantum hardware, measurement techniques, and system‑level integration.
- Conduct technical reviews of quantum‑related products, platforms, and solutions to evaluate applicability, performance, and integration potential within IQMP’s ecosystem.
- Serve as a technical advisor to IQMP leadership, offering expert guidance on quantum‑technology strategy and infrastructure investments.
- Communicate IQMP’s quantum‑technology strategy to partners, including academic collaborators, industry stakeholders, and government agencies, translating complex technical concepts into clear strategic narratives.
Strategic Planning & External Engagement
- Collaborate with IQMP stakeholders on business development and attraction, offering expert evaluation of quantum‑technology readiness, feasibility, and alignment with IQMP’s priorities.
- Represent IQMP in technical engagements with external stakeholders, including industry partners, federal agencies, and research collaborators.
- Work closely with the IQMP CEO, COO, CTO, and other senior staff on strategic planning, contributing deep technical insight into quantum device development, experimental platforms, and emerging quantum‑technology trends.
- Develop programming for the IQMP ecosystem that encourages business growth, leveraging technical expertise to identify opportunities for industry engagement, technology translation, and collaborative R&D.
- Collaborate with the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) to match quantum‑focused companies with state incentives and opportunities, providing technical insight into company needs and readiness.
Quantum Facility Operations & Infrastructure Development
- Direct technical staff involved in “on‑ramp” facility and program planning, equipment acquisition, deployment, and operations (with operational oversight reporting to the IQMP COO), including:
  - Assessing quantum hardware and instrumentation requirements.
  - Guiding instrument setup and validation.
  - Ensuring that facilities and equipment meet the needs of cutting‑edge quantum research and development.
- Oversee technical staff delivering the IL‑DARPA Quantum Proving Ground, including:
  - Interfacing with DARPA program managers and technical teams.
  - Leading facility design reviews, performance assessments, and milestone planning.
  - Ensuring scientific rigor and technical excellence in all deliverables.
- Oversee operations of the National Quantum Facility, including:
  - Working with technical staff on equipment acquisition, deployment, and maintenance.
  - Planning and managing the transition from the “on‑ramp” location to the permanent facility.
  - Managing relationships with facility tenants and ensuring operational excellence.
- Working with the IQMP CTO, COO, staff, and stakeholders to lead technical contributions to the design of the National Quantum Facility, including:
  - Defining experimental capabilities, infrastructure needs, and system architectures.
  - Developing an operational model and business plan that support advanced quantum experimentation and scalable technology development.
- Guide future facility and infrastructure planning, including manufacturing, foundry services, cryogenic systems, and quantum networking testbeds, ensuring alignment with best practices and emerging quantum‑technology requirements.

Minimum Qualifications

PhD in experimental quantum science, with doctoral research involving techniques directly relevant to quantum computing (e.g., ultracold atoms, trapped atomic ions, photonics, qubit control, cryogenic systems, quantum measurement, or quantum device fabrication).
At least three years of experience in the private sector working on quantum‑technology development, product strategy, or commercialization.
Demonstrated experience leading or contributing to experimental quantum hardware development, system integration, or laboratory‑scale quantum platforms.
Experience with personnel leadership, business development, and financial operations.
Experience supervising technical teams or managing complex technical projects involving quantum systems, instrumentation, or advanced research infrastructure.

Preferred Qualifications

At least two years of experience in ecosystem or program building at the intersection of academia, industry, and state/federal government.
Experience contributing to or leading the design, build‑out, or operation of quantum research facilities, testbeds, or pilot manufacturing environments.
Experience interfacing with federal agencies (e.g., DARPA, NSF, DOE) on technical programs, milestones, or deliverables.
Familiarity with technology‑readiness assessment, platform evaluation, and strategic planning for emerging quantum technologies.
Experience in technology translation, startup engagement, or industry partnerships in the quantum‑technology sector.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Deep knowledge of experimental quantum science, including qubit modalities, control systems, and measurement techniques.
Understanding of quantum‑technology development pipelines, from laboratory prototypes to deployable systems.
Familiarity with national and international quantum‑technology landscapes, including industry trends, research directions, and emerging platforms.
Familiarity with federal programs and/or funding initiatives.
Knowledge of facility and infrastructure requirements for quantum experimentation, including safety, environmental, and operational considerations.
Ability to evaluate quantum‑technology platforms and products proposals for technical feasibility and strategic alignment.
Strong leadership skills with the ability to supervise technical teams, mentor staff, and manage complex, multi‑stakeholder projects.
Excellent communication skills, including the ability to translate complex quantum‑technical concepts for non‑technical audiences.
Strategic planning skills, including the ability to develop technology roadmaps and guide long‑term infrastructure investments.
Strong collaboration skills for working across academia, industry, and government partners.
Ability to make high‑level decisions about quantum‑technology infrastructure, system design, and research direction.
Ability to build and sustain partnerships that advance the quantum‑technology ecosystem.
Ability to represent IQMP in technical discussions with federal agencies, industry partners, and external stakeholders.
Ability to anticipate emerging trends in quantum technology and position IQMP to capitalize on them.

Appointment Information

This is a 100% full-time Academic Professional position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start date is as soon as possible after the close date. The budgeted salary range for the position is $215,000 to $240,000. Salary is competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience, while also considering internal equity.

Application Procedures & Deadline Information

Applications must be received by 6:00 pm (Central Time) on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. Apply for this position using the Apply Now button at the top or bottom of this posting. Applications not submitted through https://jobs.illinois.edu will not be considered. For further information about this specific position, please contact Sue Key at 217-333-0034. For questions regarding the application process, please contact 217-333-2137.

At the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — the state’s flagship public university and one of the world’s leading research institutions — every staff member helps shape what’s next. Founded in 1867, Illinois is home to a vibrant community of 59,000 students from all 50 states and 129 countries, supported by 15 colleges and instructional units, more than 20 research institutes, and one of the most comprehensive student service ecosystems in the nation. Whether you’re empowering first-generation students, fueling breakthrough innovation, or strengthening communities across Illinois and beyond, your work here has a far-reaching and deeply meaningful impact. The university offers a highly competitive benefits package designed to support your well-being, growth, and financial security. Join a top 10 public university that has launched over 330 startups and continues to redefine excellence — where the Illinois Value Proposition ensures that your contributions are recognized, your potential is nurtured, and your career can thrive.

Champaign-Urbana

Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools may be used in some portions of the candidate review process for this position; however, all employment decisions will be made by a person.

This position is intended to be eligible for benefits. This includes Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, a Retirement Plan, Paid time Off, and Tuition waivers for employees and dependents.

The University of Illinois System is an equal opportunity employer, including but not limited to disability and/or veteran status, and complies with all applicable state and federal employment mandates. Please visit Required Employment Notices and Posters to view our non-discrimination statement and find additional information about required background checks, sexual harassment/misconduct disclosures, and employment eligibility review through E-Verify.

Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to apply and may request a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act (2008) to complete the application and/or interview process. Accommodations may also be requested on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, and related conditions, or religion. Requests may be submitted through the reasonable accommodation portal, or by contacting the Office for Access & Equity at 217-333-0885, option #1, or accessibility@illinois.edu.

Requisition ID: 1035253
Job Category: Professional and Administrative
Apply at: https://jobs.illinois.edu

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